Courts / Cork / Report

Cannabis importer went on to found student's advocacy group

Date
2021-11-12
Stage
Sentence
Primary locality
Ballincollig
County
Cork

Summary

Harry O'Brien, 22, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to the importation of cannabis and possession of cannabis and Ketamine for sale or supply at Trinity Halls, Rathmines, on March 13, 2019. The court heard that O'Brien imported cannabis valued at €4,426 from the United States via the dark web, while gardaí also found Ketamine worth €1,000 and additional cannabis at his address. Although O'Brien admitted to ordering drugs online, he denied being a dealer, stating he intended to consume the substances. Defence counsel highlighted O'Brien's improved mental health, his first-class honours, and his role in founding a national disabled students' advocacy group. Judge Melanie Greally acknowledged the seriousness of the misconduct but expressed openness to a Section 100 disposal, which allows for a fine and deferred imprisonment. The matter was adjourned to November 25 to allow for the canvassing of charitable organisations. The judge indicated a view to adjourning the matter again on that date under Section 100 provisions, rather than finalising the sentence immediately.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Cannabis importer went on to found student's advocacy group. Charges or matters: the importation of cannabis at Trinity Halls, Dartry Road, Rathmines, on March 13, 2019; possession of cannabis and Ketamine for sale or supply at the same address on the same date. Procedural stage: sentence

When:

Case subjects

Harry O'Brien

Defendant

Charges: the importation of cannabis at Trinity Halls, Dartry Road, Rathmines, on March 13, 2019; possession of cannabis and Ketamine for sale or supply at the same address on the same date (Admitted)

Plea: Guilty

Outcome: This section allows the court to impose a fine and defer the passing of a sentence of imprisonment for the offence.; She adjourned the matter to November 25, next, with a view of adjourning the matter again on that date under the provisions of Section 100.

Places mentioned

Court Venue
  • Dublin
  • Dublin Circuit Criminal Court
Address Area
  • Dartry Road

Topics

Drugs Stage Sentence

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